A helicopter used in wildfire operations near Kelowna, B.C., is seen in this file photo from Aug. 22, 2023. CBC
A helicopter carrying a wildfire crew made a forced landing late Wednesday morning south of Pemberton, B.C. The aircraft went down while battling one of several wildfires in the region, about 115 kilometres north of Vancouver.
Crew Members Safe
Minister of Forests Ravi Parmar confirmed the incident and shared a relief update.
"I'm relieved to let you know that all the occupants are accounted for and there are no critical injuries," Parmar said at a press briefing.
The helicopter carried a pilot and three wildfire staff members. All four walked away from the crash, according to Cliff Chapman, director of operations for the B.C. Wildfire Service.
"They are being supported both by the extraction crew as well as [paramedics] and extended health [personnel] once they get back to the Pemberton base," Chapman explained.
Tough Conditions Reported
The Transportation Safety Board said the crash happened in difficult terrain. The crew is receiving medical checks and further assistance.
Parmar said it is too early to know what caused the forced landing.
"When we have more information to share around the conditions of those wildland firefighters, and of course what led to that forced landing, we'll certainly provide that," he said.
A forced landing occurs when a pilot cannot continue flying due to uncontrollable circumstances.
RCMP and First Responders On Scene
RCMP confirmed they are treating the crash as a rescue operation. They asked the public to stay clear of Airport Road in Pemberton so emergency vehicles can move freely.
Wildfire Season Adds Pressure
The crash comes during one of the busiest wildfire seasons in B.C. The province is struggling with heavy smoke and record-breaking heat. New fires continue to spread, forcing evacuations and putting extra strain on crews.
Officials say the latest incident highlights the risks firefighters face every day. Despite the dangers, they continue to work in harsh conditions to protect communities.
